Morocco: RNI Party Finalizes Larache Candidate Amidst Internal Rivalry and Resignation

Morocco's National Rally of Independents (RNI), also known as the "Party of the Dove," has finalized its candidate for the Larache constituency in the upcoming September 23 legislative elections. After weeks of deliberation, the party leadership settled on nominating Abdelhakim Al-Ahmadi, the current president of the Larache Provincial Council.

Al-Ahmadi's nomination came after significant internal competition, particularly with Abdelkhalek Baisenti, the head of the Awamra commune. Baisenti had reportedly received strong assurances of nomination before the RNI leadership ultimately backed Al-Ahmadi. This decision led Baisenti to resign from the RNI on Tuesday.

Following his resignation, Baisenti confirmed to Hespress that he will contest the Larache seat under the banner of the Progress and Socialism Party (PPS). He reached an agreement with PPS Secretary-General Mohamed Nabil Benabdellah to represent the party. Baisenti aims to leverage the support of voters in the adjacent rural communes of Awamra and Zouada, which together comprise approximately 17,000 voters. He also plans to capitalize on tribal affiliations and the region's need for a representative who will advocate for its agricultural interests, especially in light of recent flood damage and the lack of compensation.

The RNI's decision to nominate Al-Ahmadi effectively reshuffles the political landscape in Larache, setting up a potentially competitive race with Baisenti running as a rival candidate for the PPS.

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will contest the legislative elections next time under the banner of the Progress and Socialism Party.